Spied: 2018 Honda Accord sedan

Honda has begun development of its next-generation Accord mid-size sedan. The all-new Accord should be ready for the 2018 model year.

In an effort to shave development costs, Honda will move the next-generation Accord to a platform shared with the Civic compact. The 2018 Accord might actually shrink compared to the current car, but the mid-size will still hold a size advantage over its Civic platform mate.

The prototype spotted today is still clad in heavy camouflage, but the 2018 Accord is expected to borrow most of its styling cues from the latest Civic. Most notable among those Civic influences will be a fastback-like rear end treatment.

Under hood the 2018 Accord will likely use a version of Honda’s 1.5L turbocharged four-cylinder engine. An optional V6 has been a staple of the Accord lineup for years, but Honda could ax the six-cylinder option in the name of economy. A hybrid variant will continue to be on offer.

A sleeker Accord coupe model is assumed, but nothing is set in stone at this time.

Look for the 2018 Honda Accord sedan to make its debut toward the end of 2017.